Forum: We want the best doctors; why not the best judges, too?

Friday

Oct 29, 2010 at 12:01 AMOct 29, 2010 at 12:16 AM

Assume that you must undergo a life-saving surgery, and that your choice is limited to one of two doctors. Insurance reasons. And assume that in a poll of their peers, even though not all doctors responded, nearly 50 percent of those who did said that Doctor B does not have the ability to do the surgery, and nearly 90 percent said that Doctor A does. Which doctor would you choose?

Assume that you must undergo a life-saving surgery, and that your choice is limited to one of two doctors. Insurance reasons. And assume that in a poll of their peers, even though not all doctors responded, nearly 50 percent of those who did said that Doctor B does not have the ability to do the surgery, and nearly 90 percent said that Doctor A does. Which doctor would you choose?

While both may be good, honorable doctors, the non-political choice is obvious.

When you set aside the politics, the choice in the 10th Circuit Judicial race is also clear. Both Chris Spanos and John Vespa have people who say they are good, honorable men. Vespa is an ex-cop, Spanos a Navy veteran. Both have been active in their communities. However, one very important quality clearly sets these two men apart: legal ability. According to their peers, Spanos stands out. Significantly.

Mr. Vespa and his camp have tried very hard to cast doubt on the poll, understandable given his poor performance. However, the numbers are clear. The website (www.isba.org) states that 596 ballots were sent out, and 264 were returned. Some 48 percent of lawyers familiar with his work say that Vespa does not possess the legal ability, while 87 percent say Spanos does possess the legal ability.

Take politics out of the question: Chris Spanos is the clear choice for circuit judge.

Glen Cascia

Pekin

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.